Underdwelling & Overdwelling insurance

[Eddya]

My neighbour lives in an underdwelling, he owns his own home so has buildings & contents. The house above (overdwelling) is rented out and has just got new tenants in. My neighbour came home yesterday to find a leak coming through his ceiling (washing machine fault). The bedroom ceiling is damaged plus his bed and carpet are soaked through - the water also came through the light fitting. He has spoken to the agents for the rented property and they have said they will only repair anything structural - they will not pay out for any damaged or water stained furnishings, decor, carpet etc. He has found out that the tenants have no contents insurance. What does he do now? Can he ask the tenants to pay out of their own pocket or can he claim from his own insurance and they will chase them for the money?

[Pollypeptide]

Yes, he needs to make a claim under his own policy initially and then his Insurers will endeavour to recover their outlay from the third party, if they can be held liable.
He should contact his own Broker or Insurance Company as soon as possible.